Overweight in Adults

Definition

Being overweight or obese means your weight is above an ideal weight range. Excess weight creates an increase in the risk of serious diseases like heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes.

One tool used to estimate weight range is called the body mass index (BMI). This scale determines weight ranges based on height. BMI levels in adults include:

Ideal weight range: 18.5-24.9

Overweight: 25-29.9

Obese: 30 or above

Morbid obesity: 40

Causes

Being overweight is caused by taking in more calories than we use. Calories are taken in through food. All activity in our bodies is fueled by calories. This includes physical activity and basic bodily functions. Excess weight gain occurs when this relationship is not kept in balance. If this imbalance happens regularly it will lead to obesity.

Factors that can influence the development of obesity include:

Genetics

Biologic factors—the amount and activity of certain chemicals in the body

Medications, such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, or antipsychotics

You may also experience problems during labor and deliver, have a baby with a high birth weight, or have a baby with birth defects.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Obesity is diagnosed by visual exam and body measurements using:

Height and weight tables

Body mass index

Measuring body folds with a caliper

Measuring waist circumference

Water-displacement tests

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with blood tests.

Treatment

Obesity is difficult to treat. Things that affect treatment are:

Cultural factors

Personal habits

Lifestyle

Genetics

You and your doctor will talk about the best treatment plan for you.
There are many different approaches to treating obesity based on lifestyle changes. You are more likely to successfully lose weight and keep it off by using a combination of strategies. These can include eating healthy, exercise, counseling, and/or medication. Plans for weight loss may include:

Diet

Your doctor may recommend that you spread your calorie intake throughout the day rather than getting it all in a few large meals. You may also need a special diet that will eliminate specific types of food.

Talk to your doctor or ask for a referral to a dietitian. A dietitian can help you develop a
plan
that is best for you.

Calorie Intake

The key to weight loss is reducing the total number of calories that you eat. Following a specific kind of diet, like a low-carbohydrate diet, is not necessary. It is much more important to choose a low calorie diet that you can stick with long-term.

A dietitian can help you with your total calorie intake goal. Calorie intake is based on your current weight and your weight loss goals.

Portion, or serving size, also plays an important role. Using special portion control plates may help you succeed.

Food Diary

Keep track of everything you eat and drink.

Exercise

Ask your doctor about an exercise program. Even moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking, can help you lose weight.

There are many easy ways to add extra activity into your daily routine. Take stairs instead of elevators. Park your car a little further away. Limit the amount of time you spend watching television and using the computer and substitute it with activity.

Improve Sleep

Making small adjustments to your routine will help improve sleep:

Get on a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed and get up around the same time every day, even on your days off.

Reduce noise, temperature, and light in the bedroom.

Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed.

Eat a light dinner and avoid heavy evening meals.

Create a relaxing routine before bed, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book.

Sleep apnea interferes with sleep and can create serious health complications. If you snore loudly or stop breathing during the night (noticed by a bed partner), talk to your doctor about getting a sleep test. Sleep apnea is treatable and it will improve your overall health.

Behavior Therapy

Behavior therapy may help you understand:

When you tend to overeat

Why you tend to overeat

How to combat overeating habits

When combined with diet and exercise, therapy can help you with your weight reduction.

Weight Loss Programs

Weight loss programs may work for some people. Some studies also suggest that a partner or group may help you improve your eating habits and fitness.

Medications

Weight loss medications may be prescribed. Medication alone is not enough to lose weight and keep it off. Some medications have serious side effects. There are also risks associated with over-the-counter and herbal products. Talk to your doctor before taking any of these.

Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery
makes the stomach smaller. In some cases, it will also rearrange the digestive tract. The smaller stomach can only hold a tiny portion of food at a time. Examples of procedures include:

Balloon Procedure

A non-surgical temporary balloon device has been approved to promote weight loss. The device is inserted into the stomach through the mouth. It occupies space in the stomach and triggers a feeling of fullness. The device is removed 6 months after insertion. Talk to your doctor for more information about this procedure.

Prevention

Controlling your weight can be difficult. To reduce your chance of getting overweight, take these steps:

Talk to your doctor or a dietitian about an appropriate number of calories to eat per day that will help you maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary.

Learn to eat smaller portions of food.

Limit the amount of time you spend doing sedentary activities. This includes watching TV or using the computer.

Talk to your doctor or an exercise professional about working activity into your daily life.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Dietary guidelines for Americans 2010. US Department of Agriculture and US Department of Health and Human Services. Available at:
http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2010/DietaryGuidelines2010.pdf. Accessed February 17, 2016.